India wants transparent and fair investigation into Savita Halappanavar's death

Kochi: As the tragic death of Indian dentist Savita Halappanavar in Ireland continues to evoke outrage worldwide, Overseas Indian Affairs Minister Vayalar Ravi today said the inquiry ordered by the Irish Government should be 'transparent and fair'.

He also requested the Irish government to 'show some kind of political determination to hear to the request of people that they must come out with some kind of amendment to the Abortion Law without hurting the sentiments of the catholic community there. I hope they will do so.'

The Irish government has declared there will be a probe. 'I believe that there will not be any undue influence... The inquiry should be fair', Mr Ravi told reporters.

The incident should be an 'eye opener'. 'The inquiry should be transparent and the government should take steps to see that such incidents do not recur', Mr Ravi said a day after India summoned the Irish Ambassador to convey its "concern and angst" over the untimely death of Savita.

Describing the death of Savita as 'unfortunate', Ravi said it seemed that the doctors who are supposed to respect the medical ethics, had shown no concern to her life.

There has been anguish and anger of the people all over the world, including India. The Indian government has expressed its anguish and concern on the matter, he said.

31-year old Savita, hailing from Karnataka, had died from blood poisoning at University Hospital Galway in Ireland after doctors allegedly refused to perform an abortion stating they were a catholic nation.

Abortion is illegal in Ireland except when there is a real and substantial risk to the life, as distinct from the health of the mother.

Mr Ravi also said Indians in the Gulf staying without proper documents should make use of the two month general amnesty announced by the UAE Government from Dec 4-Feb 3.

He would hold talks with the Civil Aviation Minister to ensure that more flights were deployed to bring back those wanting to return home.